Prolonged half‐life of verapamil in a case of overdose: implications for therapy.

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Abstract
After an overdose of verapamil (2.4 g) in a 59‐year‐old man the apparent half‐life of verapamil was prolonged (15 h). The most likely mechanism is rate‐limiting absorption, although changes in clearance and volume of distribution may contribute. As the elimination half‐life of verapamil is increased in overdose, therapy may have to be continued for longer than expected. Moreover since the half‐life of absorption of verapamil in overdose may be prolonged, activated charcoal should be given in repeated doses, even if an ordinary‐release formulation has been taken.